March27, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Mac Thornberry (R-TX) introduced H.R. 6395, the “by request” version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. This procedural measure is traditionally the first step in the legislative process for the NDAA.

The legislation filed this week does not reflect substantive work by the Armed Services Committee. Rather, provisions contained in the bill reflect legislative proposals submitted by the Department of Defense. When the Committee meets to consider the FY21 NDAA, the content of H.R. 6395 will be struck and replaced with subcommittee and full committee proposals.

As the nation grapples with the COVID-19 crisis, the Committee continues to adhere to the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Sergeant at Arms, and the House Attending Physician. During this time of uncertainty, the Committee remains focused on completing the FY21 NDAA and performing rigorous oversight through formal communications and teleconferences, which can and will be accomplished while protecting the health of our members and staff.